I have been wanting to make a bench using a headboard and footboard for a loooong time. It was just a matter of finding an inexpensive set that I liked. I picked up these two pieces at a thriftshop for $10 for both pieces. I love the simpleness of the design. There were no side rails with them. I used scrapwood (tables leaves from an old broken table) we had in the garage to finish it off. My husband helped me put in a few long screws I couldn't get to go in but other than that I did all the cutting, putting together and painting.
Remember the box of furniture legs I got at a yard sale last summer for $1. I used two of these to make the sides higher. I thought about using fancier legs but these plain boxy ones match better.
After caulking I sprayed a coat of Kilz primer on it yesterday. I'm still not sure what color I'm going to paint it but I love it already.
Total cost of bench: $10
Edited 5-7-10 to add this pillow
I really wanted to make a cushion for the bench but foam is so expensive. Tonight I had an idea pop into my head. I started with this table runner that I picked up at a yard sale last summer for $1. Someone made it with coordinating fabrics so it is reversible.
It was about a foot longer than the bench so I cut the extra length off and sewed the ruffle back on. A lady from church had given me about 15 yards of quilt batting that she had used as "snow" at her daughter's wedding reception. So I took some, rolled it up, turned my pillowcase inside out and rolled it onto the batting.
Instead of a cushion I have this great reversible pillow that cost me $1!!! The bench with the pillow cost me a grand total of $11 and a few hours work!
I have this beautiful old piece of wood I cut from the middle of the footboard. It is almost three feet across. I think I will make a sign to hang on the wall. Maybe I will paint "Antiques" across it. So many options.
I am linking up with Frugal Friday, Thrifty Treasures, Made By You Monday, Met Monday and Do it Yourself Day, Show and Share Day, Transformation Thursday, I made it Without My Hubby, Furniture Feature Friday, Saturday Nite Special, and TDC's Before and After Party
Wow, Arlene, that is SO cute!! I love it already too & you're not even done with it. Can't wait to see more & where you put it. So cute!
ReplyDeleteOh, my word! What a great project!!! :) I'm going to have to link to it either this Friday or next. Good job! :) I'm visiting from Rhoda's party-hope you'll stop by my blog too. :)
ReplyDeleteThat is very cool! You did a wonderful job with it!
ReplyDeleteNancy
Looks great! I love the detail on the headboard/bench back.
ReplyDeleteWhat a great way to make a bench - very nice.
ReplyDeleteI want to make one of these too! too cute!
ReplyDeleteAmazing bench. I love it, you did a great job.
ReplyDeletewow - gorgeous!
ReplyDeleteWOW! I am TOTALLY stunned. How wonderful is that bench? Be proud of yourself my dear. You have at least this reader in total awe! xx
ReplyDeleteOh I think you did a fabulous job! It's beautiful and such a wonderful idea!! LOVE it!
ReplyDeleteCute bench!
ReplyDeleteI want one!!!! It's looking fabulous!!
ReplyDeleteI love these benches made from head and foot boards! Your creation was such a bargain! Some poufy little seat and side cushions will be the crowning touches to your sweet, thrifty treasure.
ReplyDelete:-) Sue
Love your bench...can't wait to see what color you end up painting it. And I agree with the comment above, an overstuffed cushion would look darling on it! Nice Work!
ReplyDeleteI love it ! Always wanted to do this, it turned out great !
ReplyDeleteIt looks great! I have an old, old twin bed head and foot board that I've been wanting to do the same thing to. I love the sign idea!
ReplyDelete☺ Celeste
It's beautiful! you did a great job!
ReplyDeletegail
Beautiful execution! And that reversible cushion you made?!? What a cool idea! This project sure is a pretty one!
ReplyDeleteThanks for linking up to SNS!
FJ Donna
I love your bench, what a good job you did! And the pillow is so cute too.
ReplyDeleteWOW!!! That is fabulous!
ReplyDeletem ^..^
Love it! I have been wanting to make one for myself for some time. I am saving this post for instpiration. Wishing you a blessed Mother's Day...sherry
ReplyDeletewow that looks awesome! great job! I'd love for you to link up http://iheartnaptime.blogspot.com/2010/05/sundae-scoop-favs-link-party-and.html
ReplyDeleteI LOVE this idea! It turned out beautiful!
ReplyDeleteI love the bench and I can't wait to see how the sign turns out (if that's what you end up doing with it.) You are very talented and repurposing furniture!
ReplyDeleteYour bench turned out fantastic! I love the clean, simple lines of it...and that pillow is just perfect!
ReplyDelete